- Aug 21, 2014
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My wife and I are looking to raise a small flock of chickens (6-10) for the first time. We are thinking a mix of Barred Rock and RI Reds. We definitely get cold winters (snow,freezing rain, wind, etc) so hardiness is pretty important. I am trying to figure out what size coop would be best as well as some info on the fenced in run.
I have a local Amish builder who makes some pretty great coops so I was looking to go that route. Traditional sizes are 4x4, 4x6, and 4x8. I can also get an attached 3ft high run (standard size is 8x8). The area where I want to put the coop is currently thick brush, dead trees etc. I would obviously need to clear the spot for the coop and small attached run but I also want to fence in an area for them outside of the coop. I was thinking of going with the 6ft chicken mesh and burying it a couple inches.
Can I just leave them to forage in the thick brush? Do I need to clear around where the fence will be so they can't just easily climb a small tree branch/brush and get to the top of the fence or can I just fence in a good size area all around the coop and just weave in and out of the thick stuff?
My reasoning for the fence is to give them a larger place to forage/exercise and also try to keep the coyotes etc out. It is not feasible to put a roof/cover on the large fenced in area.
I appreciate any guidance as I a true beginner.
Thanks!
I have a local Amish builder who makes some pretty great coops so I was looking to go that route. Traditional sizes are 4x4, 4x6, and 4x8. I can also get an attached 3ft high run (standard size is 8x8). The area where I want to put the coop is currently thick brush, dead trees etc. I would obviously need to clear the spot for the coop and small attached run but I also want to fence in an area for them outside of the coop. I was thinking of going with the 6ft chicken mesh and burying it a couple inches.
Can I just leave them to forage in the thick brush? Do I need to clear around where the fence will be so they can't just easily climb a small tree branch/brush and get to the top of the fence or can I just fence in a good size area all around the coop and just weave in and out of the thick stuff?
My reasoning for the fence is to give them a larger place to forage/exercise and also try to keep the coyotes etc out. It is not feasible to put a roof/cover on the large fenced in area.
I appreciate any guidance as I a true beginner.
Thanks!